Why don't we wear hats anymore?

Question

why don't men and women wear hats as much as they did in the 19th century?

Answer 1

Throughout history, people generally covered their heads as a sign of status - especially women, who were required to cover their hair with a hat or veil (religious reasons here). Unmarried women could wear their hair loose.

In more formal days, hats were not only an important part of fashion but an accessory (in the case of men) which they would use to show their good manners. For several centuries - particularly 17th and 18th - a man would sweep off his hat while making a leg (bow) to a lady, and would lift it to a certain degree according to the status of the other person.

In these modern times, it no longer seems necessary to wear a hat, particularly as our lifestyles are more free, but people still do so on special occasions, like at church, a wedding, Royal Ascot, etc.

Of course, there are plenty of people who like to wear them for fashion, but it is still rather frowned upon to keep them on in the house or, for men, while speaking to a lady. Funny how it's required for ladies to wear hats in church while the opposite is true for men!

Have a look at the below:

http://www.hatsuk.com/hatsuk/hatsukhtml/bible/history.htm
http://www.thehatsite.com/historyofhats.html
http://www.fashion-era.com/hats-hair/hats_hair_1_wearing_hats_fashion_history.htm

Answer 2

People Wearing Hats

Answer 3

For men, it was because of John F. Kennedy. He didn't like wearing hats and he had great hair, so men stopped wearing hats. For men and women, it's just a change in fashions. Also, compared to the 19th century, buildings are better heated and people spend less time out-of-doors. Bathing and washing hair is also easier and done more often. So, apart for religious reasons and protection from the elements, people don't wear hats as much anymore.

Answer 4

I'm not sure of all the reasons but I can give you two. I have read that men stopped wearing hats when it was noted that newly elected John F. Kennedy rarely wore a hat. As for women, well, when I was little, and a member of the Catholic Church, women were required to wear a hat or some sort of head covering in church to demonstrate their submission to men. God was the head of man, and man was the head of woman. Women wore a head covering to demonstrate this separation. In the 1970's, this rule was lifted by the Catholic Church.

I'm sure both of these things I've sited had something to do with it, but I'm sure there is more to it. A very good question. But then, wait, what about the prevalence of baseball caps now? Hmm. More to think about. By the way, I love hats. Please note my avatar.

Answer 5

maybe because it's the not the 19th century anymore it's the 21th century,and plus people are much busier now, than back in the 19th century, what's the piont to keep on putting it on and taking it off when they are in the building,and because fashion changes!

Answer 6

Great question. In the 19th century birds were much more plentiful and a day rarley passed when (if you forgot your hat) you didn't come home with some bird poop in your hair. Most people arn't aware of this. Glad to help you out.

Answer 7

its not the fashion any more. but because i still love wearing hats. subonnets usually i wear them with sun dresses during the summer anyways fashionable or not ! i also wear long skirts sometimes just because i want to and i can. so if u want ot do if not don't.

Answer 8

People say indoors more where you are not suppose to wear a hat. People that are out in the sun or rough weather generally wear some sort of head protection.

Answer 9

that is because back then corned beef hash was more popular. This is a nice way to make a hat--with corned beef. It works well with kids and dogs. Just think--you can be a party for your friends.

Answer 10

cuz where in the 21st century! and most people cant wear them in buildings and it doesnt make much sense to keep taking it off and putting it back on